Page 64 of Shadow Operative

Besides, black would help her to blend in, and the stretchy fabric would be comfortable.

Gage had already grabbed something as well, and they checked out.

Then Gage flashed another smile at the snooty employee as he slipped her a couple extra bills, and the woman’s shoulders relaxed some.

Was Gage one of those guys? The kind who could charm people?

Nia had a feeling the answer was yes. However, he also had a sincerity about him that confused her. He was suspicious yet concerned. Accusatory but protective.

Who was Gage Pearson? Who was he really?

They slipped back into the lobby and disappeared into their respective bathrooms to get cleaned up and changed.

After Nia put on the dress, she stared at herself in the mirror. It would be better if she had some makeup to touch up her face. But, overall, she looked much better—and much more appropriate for going out tonight.

Now she only hoped that Gage approved.

chapter

twenty-nine

Gage sawNia step out from the bathroom, and his eyes widened.

He let out a low whistle.

It was quite the transformation. She’d looked beautiful before while wearing her business casual.

Right now, she simply looked stunning.

The dress fit her perfectly and showed off every curve. Her hair looked full and her curls bouncy. He’d said they needed to be understated, but Gage knew that was nearly impossible for someone like Nia. She had a natural beauty that radiated from her.

She glanced at him almost nervously. “Am I okay?”

“You’re more than okay. You look great.”

A smile drifted across her lips. “Thanks. You look nice too.”

He glanced down at the white designer jeans he’d bought, along with a black button-up shirt and black dress shoes.

Then he offered his arm. “You ready for this?”

She nodded. “I am. I’m ready to find answers.”

“We stick together,” he reminded her.

Gage had his gun with him, but he doubted he could get it past security at the club. He’d leave it locked in the car instead. He’d already set it up to use the Porsche again, just to be on the safe side.

He knew how to handle himself in these situations. But it made him nervous thinking about bringing Nia with him. There was a possibility they could get themselves into some sticky situations.

Yet he knew she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Besides, if she saw someone or heard something, it might bring back some memories. If Nia could remember what had happened . . . then maybe they’d find the answers they needed.

Nia brushed off her nerves as she and Gage parked on the street a block away from Avenue 12.

She hadn’t expected to come back here, yet here she was.

After climbing out, she took Gage’s arm so they could look as if they were a couple.

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